Tired of the crowds and busyness of San Diego's most well-known attractions? Hit up these hidden gems often enjoyed by locals looking for the authentic San Diego experience without the chaos. Almost every gem is free and available any day of the week!
1. South Cardiff State Beach
Just north of Del Mar you will find a serene stretch of beach along the Pacific Coast Highway. Check out this beach when all the rest seem too crowded.
2. North Park
Skip the bars and clubs in Pacific Beach and come to North Park for a night. Enjoy eclectic dining and hipster-style bars with fun outdoor games and fun infused drinks.
3. Cedros Avenue
A street filled with interesting and inviting shops with antique and new things for the home and things for you. Looking to start a succulent garden? Cedros has many stores with lots of different succulent displays. Spend the night out at the Belly Up singing along with the band or just grabbing some drinks with friends. Also, don’t miss the Farmers Market on Sunday afternoons. 
4. Carlsbad Strawberry Fields
A perfect summer excursion for families, the Carlsbad strawberry fields offer juicy ripe strawberries for the picking. There’s no need to worry about there not being enough strawberries to pick, they’ve got thousands!
5. Encinitas
While Encinitas is not much of a hidden gem to the locals that enjoy its shops and restaurants every day, tourist may be unknowing of everything this town has to offer. Hit up Better Buzz for “The Best Drink Ever” or stop by the Encinitas Fish Shop for some fresh fish caught right off the coast of San Diego.
6. Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
Take an alternative trip to the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge located in close proximity to the World Famous Balboa Park. Discover haunting views of downtown San Diego or relax with your favorite book by the stream below. The bridge will lead you to the historic neighborhood of Banker’s Hill.
7. Las Americas Premium Outlets
Located just one exit away from the US-Mexico border, these outlets are often overshadowed by the Carlsbad outlets. Here any shopper can find amazing deals on huge brand name apparel. Newly remodeled and enhanced, these outlets are a great alternative to the busy malls of San Diego.
8. Iron Mountain
Looking for a more challenging hike than Torrey Pines? Ditch the crowds and head out to eastern Poway with your friends for a 5.8 mile up to the summit of Iron Mountain. At the top you will find 360 views of all of San Diego County and beyond.
9. Pannikin Coffee and Tea in Encinitas
Ditch your Starbucks before the beach and come to the big yellow train depot on Pacific Coast Highway. Enjoy freshly ground coffee, exotic imported teas, fresh baked muffins, and a west coast atmosphere that can only be found in San Diego.
10. Bird Rock
Tucked just between well-known La Jolla and bustling Pacific Beach is the quaint neighborhood of Bird Rock. Stop here in stead of La Jolla for great coffee at Bird Rock Coffee Roasters. Get a taste of authentic San Diego Mexican food at Don Bravo located just off La Jolla Blvd.
